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Often called one of the Comox Valley’s hidden jewels, the Comox Air Force Museum’s library is a comprehensive collection of books, photos and periodicals of military aviation, particularly Canadian military aviation. It includes more than 7,000 books, 20,000 photos and 15,000 magazines. Much of the Museum’s book, periodical, photograph and aircraft model collections were a gift from the estate of the late Geoffrey Rowe, a true collector, who died at Victoria in the summer of 1994. After incorporation of this magnificent gift into the Museum in 1995, the Library was named in his honour. The books themselves are divided into several sections. The majority of the books are second-hand sources, written monographs or other reference works by historians. There is also an extensive collection of manuals for aircraft. These manuals are fruitful sources of primary information on aircraft and those who flew and worked on them. In a similar vein, the museum preserves a collection of log books which constitute one of the finest primary sources for anyone interested in the history of specific aircraft or the squadrons that flew them. The museum is very interested in expanding this collection, so if you have a log book you would like to donate, please contact us. The museum also holds copies of selected crash records from the 1930’s, ‘40’s, ‘50’s and ‘60’s. These records were originally produced by the Rescue Coordination Centre in Victoria, BC, and are an excellent source of information on the crash sites, the rescues to find survivors and specific information about people or aircraft.
The collection of magazines, some from as far back as 1912 are an excellent primary resource, often being one of the few ways to gauge popular characterizations of historical events by contemporary writers. Since the magazines are so fragile compared to traditional books, we keep them out of the main area of the library. Please inquire if you have an interest in seeing the collection, and a volunteer will assist you setting up. If you should have any questions about our library collection, or any interest in donating in order to expand its holdings, please do not hesitate to contact us. The photo collection at the Museum is a document of local history, both aeronautically (photos of many of the planes that have flown here) and of the people of 19 Wing Comox. Many of the photos featured are unique – perhaps existing nowhere else, and likely not available for public viewing elsewhere. The base has long been the largest employer in the Valley, and one of its most significant local establishments. As a result, the Museum’s collection is absolutely required for any local historians, trying to capture the experience of the Valley after 1942. Similarly, any historian interested in aviation and its manifestation on the West Coast should view this collection.
Comments about the website? email:cafmwebmaster@shaw.ca |
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